Nanocarbon-Containing Polymer Composite Foams: A Review of Systems for Applications in Electromagnetic Interference Shielding, Energy Storage, and Piezoresistive Sensors

Abstract

This paper presents recent developments in electrically conducting nanocarbon-containing polymer composite foams for advanced applications and introduces the knowledge gaps and potential solutions. Various materials have been used for electromagnetic interference shielding, energy storage, and piezoresistive applications. Among these, nanocarbon-containing polymer composite foams score high because of their superior performance and lightweight. By offering a holistic overview of the fundamentals of electromagnetic interference shielding, piezoresistivity, the processing of polymer nanocomposites and foams, and the critical aspects related to the development of electrically conducting polymer nanocomposite foams for advanced applications, this paper provides insight into future advances in this area. Furthermore, the selective localization of nanofiller particles in polymer blends and the consequent effects on the foamability and electrical properties of foams, an area seldom discussed in the literature, is critically reviewed in the present work. In summary, this paper offers new insights into the design of advanced conductive nanocarbon-containing polymer composite foams for applications in electromagnetic interference shielding, energy storage, and piezoresistive sensors.